Time in Medellín
Medellín operates on Colombia Time (COT), which aligns with Central Standard Time (CST) in the United States, placing it in the same time zone as cities like Chicago and Houston. Additionally, it shares this time zone with Quito and Lima. During Daylight Saving Time, Medellín corresponds to Central Daylight Time (CDT), meaning it is in the same time zone as New York City during Standard Time but an hour behind New York when Daylight Saving Time is observed.
In contrast, Los Angeles operates on Pacific Time (PT), which is UTC-8 during Standard Time and UTC-7 during Daylight Saving Time, making Medellín either two or three hours ahead of Los Angeles depending on the time of year. Colombia Time (COT) is five hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5). Unlike many regions, Medellín does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year, providing a stable timekeeping system.
Medellín Weather
Medellín, often called the “City of Eternal Spring,” enjoys a remarkably mild and pleasant climate year-round. Located in the Aburrá Valley at an altitude of about 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level, the city experiences average temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 28°C (82°F). This consistent weather pattern is due to its equatorial location and elevation, which moderate extreme temperature fluctuations. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with two distinct wet seasons occurring from April to May and September to November, typically manifesting as short, intense afternoon showers.
Medellín has a high average humidity level, around 67% yearly, contributing to the moist air, especially during the rainy seasons. The city receives an average of 4.5 to 6.5 hours of sunshine per day and an annual rainfall of around 1,600 to 1,800 millimeters (63 to 71 inches). The air quality in Medellín can be a concern due to temperature inversions that trap pollutants, primarily from vehicle emissions and industrial activities. The UV radiation levels are also significant, requiring protective measures due to higher UV exposure from the city’s elevation and equatorial position.
Wind: 3km/h ESE
Humidity: 76%
Pressure: 1021mbar
UV index: 2
25°C
26°C
25°C
25°C
25°C / 18°C
24°C / 17°C
28°C / 17°C
29°C / 17°C
Medellín Elevation
On average Medellín is approximately 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level. Within the metropolitan area, notable variations in altitude include Niquía at around 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) and Sabaneta at approximately 1,550 meters (5,085 feet). The highest parts of Medellín, such as the neighborhoods of Santo Domingo and Villa Hermosa, can reach up to 1,800 meters (5,905 feet).
Additionally, some of Medellín’s corregimientos, like San Cristóbal, San Antonio de Prado, and Santa Elena, have even higher elevations, ranging from 1,800 to 2,500 meters (5,900 to 8,200 feet), contributing to their unique microclimates.
The highest points on the outskirts of Medellín include Cerro Nutibara at 2,350 meters (7,710 feet) and Cerro El Volador at 2,250 meters (7,380 feet). Surrounding peaks, such as Cerro Padre Amaya and Alto de Boquerón, reach elevations of approximately 2,800 meters (9,186 feet), offering stunning views and diverse ecosystems.
Where is Medellín Located?
Medellín is located in the northwest region of Colombia, in the department of Antioquia. The city is situated in the Aburrá Valley, part of the extensive Andes mountain range. Approximately 6 degrees north of the equator, or roughly 690 kilometers (430 miles), Medellín enjoys a tropical rainforest climate with consistent temperatures year-round. The valley is characterized by its steep, mountainous terrain, which surrounds the urban area and contributes to its unique topography.
Medellín is about 245 kilometers (152 miles) northwest of Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia, and serves as a central hub for commerce, industry, and tourism in the region. Covering a total area of 328 km², the city is divided into 110 km² of urban land and 218 km² of rural land, with an overall extension of 1,152 km². The Aburrá Valley, including Medellín and its surrounding municipalities, ranges in elevation from 1,300 to 2,800 meters above sea level. Medellín is the capital of the Antioquia department, which shares borders with regions such as Montería, Chocó, Manizales, and other municipalities in Colombia.